Formulation and evaluation of polyherbal hair care powders
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Formulation and evaluation of polyherbal hair care powders
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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Afzal Azam, A. Rahamatullah Sapna Raveendran, Rajeev Dube
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Formulation and evaluation of polyherbal hair care powders
Year: 1996
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The ancient tradition of employing herbs for hair care has led to the formulation and evaluation of polyherbal hair care powders, as detailed in a study by MD Afzal Azam and colleagues published in July 1996. The research aimed to develop herbal formulations that leverage the beneficial properties of various plants, known for their roles in conditioning, nourishing, and protecting hair. Herbs such as Acacia concinna and Sapindus mukorossi, recognized for their saponin content, were included, as well as other herbal ingredients believed to positively affect hair quality and scalp health.
Properties of Herbal Ingredients
One of the key findings of the study is the integration of saponin-containing plants in the formulations. Formulations A, B, and C were based on ingredients like Acacia concinna, Sapindus trifoliatus, and others, each possessing unique hair care benefits. While it was observed that none of the formulations produced dense foam, they displayed good cleaning properties and notable anti-dandruff effects, particularly in formulations A and C over an extended usage period of three weeks. The pleasant aroma remained a consistent benefit across all formulations, enhancing user experience without causing irritation to the eyes, which was confirmed during clinical evaluations.
Conclusion
The development and evaluation of polyherbal hair care powders have demonstrated promising outcomes in enhancing hair quality using natural ingredients. The study highlighted that although the formulations lacked significant foaming ability, their effectiveness in cleaning and providing anti-dandruff properties met the expectations of the volunteers. Ultimately, the research supports the continued exploration of herbal remedies in modern hair care routines, presenting a natural alternative to conventional products and emphasizing the need for further investigations to optimize these herbal formulations for enhanced efficacy.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are polyherbal hair care powders and their purpose?
Polyherbal hair care powders are formulated using various herbs to improve hair health. They cleanse, nourish, and protect hair and scalp, while addressing issues like dandruff and hair loss.
What ingredients are commonly used in these hair care formulations?
Common ingredients include Acacia concinna, Sapindus trifoliate, Trigonella foenum graecum, and Albizzia amara. These herbs provide benefits such as cleaning, conditioning, and promoting hair growth.
How were the formulations evaluated in the study?
The formulations were evaluated through subjective feedback from ten human volunteers. Key factors assessed included oil removal, hair nature after washing, fragrance, and eye irritation.
What were the major findings from the evaluation of the formulations?
All three formulations effectively removed oil and improved hair manageability. Formulations A and C exhibited significant anti-dandruff properties, while all formulations had agreeable fragrances and no eye irritation was reported.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Formulation and evaluation of polyherbal hair care powders”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Fragrance:
Fragrance refers to the pleasant scents that are added to hair care formulations to enhance user experience. In the context of the study, it plays a crucial role in consumer acceptance of the products, ensuring that they leave the hair with an agreeable scent after washing, making the application more enjoyable.
2) Water:
Water is often a crucial component in formulations, as it acts as a solvent for dissolving various active ingredients. In hair care products, water helps to hydrate the hair and scalp, facilitates the interaction of herbs in the formulation, and is essential for the washing process, enhancing product effectiveness.
3) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial refers to agents that inhibit bacterial growth. In hair care, such ingredients can prevent scalp infections and improve overall scalp health. The presence of antibacterial herbs in the formulations like Azadirachta indica is significant for ensuring cleanliness and reducing dandruff, thus contributing to healthier hair and scalp.
4) Irritation:
Irritation is a critical factor in evaluating cosmetic formulations, as it measures the potential adverse effects on skin and eyes. In the study, assessments for irritation were performed using a well-known method to ensure formulations were safe for users, aiming to avoid discomfort or adverse reactions during application.
5) Trigonella foenum-graecum:
Trigonella foenum-graecum, or fenugreek, is a herb known for its beneficial properties such as cooling effects and preventing hair fall. In the formulations, its inclusion may contribute to nourishing the hair and improving the overall health of the scalp, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the hair care product.
6) Amara (Amarā, Amāra):
Amara likely refers to Albizzia amara, a plant known for its foaming and cooling properties. In hair care products, it assists in providing a desirable texture and sensory experience while also contributing to the conditioning effects on hair, which may result in improved manageability post-wash.
7) Phyllanthus emblica:
Phyllanthus emblica, also known as Indian gooseberry or Amla, is prized for its antidandruff and hair darkening properties. Its inclusion in formulations may enhance the overall health and appearance of hair, making it a valuable ingredient targeting specific issues like thinning hair and scalp conditions.
8) Glycyrrhiza glabra:
Glycyrrhiza glabra, or licorice, is known for its growth-promoting properties for hair. Its potential effects in hair care formulations may include soothing the scalp and aiding in nourishment, which contributes to healthier hair growth and overall hair vitality when included in polyherbal preparations.
9) Azadirachta indica:
Azadirachta indica, commonly known as neem, exhibits antibacterial properties and is often used in hair care for its effectiveness in preventing scalp infections and controlling dandruff. Its presence in formulations can significantly enhance product efficacy while promoting scalp health and cleanliness.
10) Dolichos biflorus:
Dolichos biflorus is a legume known for its detergent properties. In hair care formulations, it may aid in cleansing the scalp and hair, helping to remove oils and impurities effectively, thus serving as an important ingredient for maintaining hair cleanliness and hygiene.
11) Santalum album:
Santalum album, or sandalwood, is celebrated for its soothing fragrance and cooling properties. Its role in hair care formulations can enhance the sensory experience, while potentially contributing antibacterial effects that promote a healthy scalp environment and improved overall hair condition.
12) Vetiveria zizanioides:
Vetiveria zizanioides, or vetiver, is noted for its fragrant properties and potential ability to promote hair growth. By incorporating vetiver into hair care formulations, it not only adds a pleasant scent but may also contribute to healthier hair by promoting a supportive environment for growth.
13) Acorus calamus:
Acorus calamus, known for its anti-lice properties, provides a natural option for pest control in hair care formulations. Its presence in products can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with lice infestations, thereby improving product versatility and user satisfaction.
14) Embelia ribes:
Embelia ribes is noted for its anti-infective properties. In the context of hair care formulations, it contributes to scalp health by potentially fighting infections and ensuring a clean and healthy environment for hair growth, enhancing the overall product effectiveness in promoting hair health.
15) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the section in a research paper where results are interpreted, contextualized, and implications are explored. In the context of this study, the discussion serves to elucidate the efficacy of the formulations, making connections between the ingredients and their effects on hair care outcomes.
16) Quality:
Quality in this context refers to the effectiveness and safety of the hair care formulations. Evaluation criteria such as cleaning ability, user satisfaction, and any adverse effects are used to assess formulation quality, ensuring that the products meet consumer expectations and regulatory standards in hair care.
17) Science (Scientific):
Science plays a foundational role in the formulation and evaluation of hair care products, where empirical methods and research validate the efficacy of ingredients. The use of standardized procedures ensures that the resulting products are effective, safe, and meet the desired standards of quality and consumer satisfaction.
18) Sage:
Sage is a herb traditionally associated with hair care, noted for its conditioning properties. In formulations, it contributes to hair health, potentially providing benefits like darkening hair and enhancing shine, thus making it a valued ingredient for those seeking natural and effective hair care solutions.